At this point in time, there is only one variety of wine under the Red Rock Winery label and that variety is Merlot. I don’t know if they have any plans for other varieties, but for now it’s Merlot. And it’s a good Merlot.

Actually, while it only says Merlot on the label there are a few other varieties in this wine. It is 95% Merlot with 2.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petite Sirah and .5% Syrah. Red Rock is a winery but not a vineyard, that is to say they source their grapes from different vineyards in different parts of California. The appellation for this Merlot is defined as “California,” so the grapes can come from anywhere in the state.

This is a fairly simple, but good Merlot. Plum dominates the nose, but there is also a subtle herbal aroma and a bit of blackberry. The palate is medium-bodied and fruity, with plum and blackberry dancing over your tongue. Kevin, at Under the Grape Tree, describes it as “almost-full-bodied” and I think that’s a good description. It’s well rounded and very well balanced. The tannins are soft and pleasant. A gentle spicy kick comes in on the finish to add a little interest to this wine.

If you prefer an approachable, fruit-forward Merlot, this is a good choice at a good price. The suggested retail price is $12.00 but I’ve seen it for as low as $9.00 in my region.

We went to the “Rancho Grande” Mexican restaurant tonight in Hartsville, South Carolina and had two glasses of Red Rock Merlot wine tonight. It was delicious. I have already gone on line to find where I can find this fantastic wine.

I discovered this Merlot (2012) the other day in our local supermarket and I must say I like it. I agree with the “almost full bodied” description. I taste oak and cherry and it is a good dry red, which is a favorite.